Great Lakes Industrial (GLI) proudly marks its 70th anniversary, celebrating seven decades of innovation, customer commitment, and quality products, with a vision of being its customers’ first choice for engineered solutions. Founded in 1954 by George Henry Baumann, Great Lakes Rubber and Supply (GLR) emerged with a clear mission to provide essential industrial products such as O-rings, hoses, belting, gaskets, and PTFE. From its modest beginnings in a 500-square-foot location in downtown Milwaukee, GLR quickly gained traction thanks to George’s foresight and determination.

Under George’s leadership, GLR experienced steady growth, necessitating two transitions to larger facilities – one in 1956 to an 8,000-foot facility and then again in 1984 to 25,000-square-foot facility. This expansion facilitated greater production capacity and enabled GLR to better serve its expanding customer base. In 1992, Thomas Baumann, George’s son, assumed the role of President, steering the company into a new era of growth and expansion. Under Thomas's guidance, GLR expanded its footprint into Illinois, doubled its revenue in the first 3 years of his leadership, and continued to invest in state-of-the-art facilities and advanced manufacturing equipment.

In 2018, George Baumann, the founder’s grandson, assumed the presidency, leading GLR through a transformative rebranding initiative that saw the company evolve into an engineering, manufacturing, and distribution provider through both organic growth and acquisition. The expansion of product lines and locations allowed GLR to rebrand as Great Lakes Industrial (GLI). This strategic rebranding underscored GLI’s commitment to seeking new demand spaces, investing in people, and embracing technology while setting the stage for growth and expansion.

“I’m immensely proud of Great Lakes Industrial’s remarkable journey, evolving from just 2 employees in 1954 to over 90 today. Our ascent to becoming a Top Workplace in Wisconsin is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our employees, fostering a culture of inclusivity, growth, and mutual respect,” says George Baumann, president of Great Lakes Industrial.

As Great Lakes Industrial commemorates its 70th anniversary, the company remains steadfast in its mission of delivering exceptional products and services and providing the best customer experience to its customers, employees, and the communities it represents across the nation. Looking ahead, GLI is poised to build upon its rich legacy of excellence and innovation, ensuring continued success for generations to come.

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